Pran Raina shares a different perspective on the Maha Kumbh
SOHO (Syndicate of Housekeeping Professionals)
Hospitality's Best Kept Secret.
I learned too much, too fast, with this trip to the Kumbh mela! I want to share my experience as a hospitality professional with 35+ years of national and international experience, having handled 600 rooms, 5,000 banqueting guests, the Commonwealth Games in Delhi, and the Aero Show in Chennai. At the time, these experiences seemed massive in scale.
I received extensive training to manage such events, but after visiting the Maha Kumbh at Prayagraj, I felt truly humbled. Compared to the untrained hygiene, sanitation, and housekeeping staff, my experience seemed small in front of their dedication and the flawless upkeep of a 100-square-kilometer area. Everything—washrooms, changing rooms, roads, and Akharas—was exceptionally well-maintained, and I couldn’t find a single fault.
The credit goes to the leadership, who led from the front, providing clear and precise directions. I spoke with many associates and managerial staff, and they were completely aligned with their roles and responsibilities.
All of them were equipped with the latest machines, tools, and cleaning chemicals. While many of the ground-level staff were not highly educated, they possessed something far more valuable—loyalty, dedication, and commitment.
I had the privilege of visiting the VVIP tented accommodations, and trust me, it was nothing short of extraordinary—surpassing even international standards. I interacted with several foreign visitors who were amazed at the efficiency and organization of the event and left with fond memories of India. I later learned that the leadership conducted surprise visits almost every day, ensuring strict compliance without seeking media attention—a key factor in the event’s success.
Of course, there is always room for improvement, and there may have been minor hiccups, but they were negligible in the grand scheme of things.
As citizens of India, especially those of us in the hospitality industry, we should feel immensely proud to witness such a large-scale event executed so seamlessly. Let’s wholeheartedly appreciate and celebrate the incredible people behind it, wishing them continued success and good health.
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Ex Executive Housekeeper HOD ,having rich and diverse experience of over 24 years at ITC Ltd..Hotel Division( specialized in Pre-opening project Hotels and Corporate offices)
23 小时前Thankyou Sir. For sharing your experience and views about the flawless upkeep of the area,I had visitors from USA and they shared and praised the efforts of the Management for taking care of such a vast area.Having worked with you closely, Now I can relate the high standards ,coming from you a Perfectionist and having vast experience in the Industry. Kudos to the great Team effort for making this occasion a Grand Success.Not an easy task.
Senior Vice President- HK at The Lemon Tree Hotels
3 天前Pran Raina you must have visited kumbh in VVIP catagory :) There is lot to be done for big events like this. Imagine people walking kilometers to have a holy dip - no facilities on the way to cater their needs. It should be well planned event. Question is how all of us can bring the great infrastructure and help govt in better planning and execution.
Hospitality Professional
3 天前Excellent insight, Sir!
AVP - Head of Industrial Facility Management and General Services- India
4 天前Thank you sir for sharing your experience... I couldn't make it to the Kumbh mela, but can visualize the experience through your explanation... you yourself is a perfectionist, i am sure the arrangements must have been exceptional...
Head Facilities
4 天前Interesting